The factional National Chairman of the New Nigeria Peoples Party, NNPP, Dr. Agbo Major, has expressed concerns over what he described as persistent attempts to create confusion regarding the legitimate leadership and structure of the party, warning that such developments could have implications for Nigeria’s democratic process ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Thursday, Major said the NNPP remained committed to upholding democratic values, the rule of law, and the integrity of the country’s electoral system.
Addressing party leaders, stakeholders, members of the diplomatic community, civil society groups, and the media, the NNPP chairman stated that the party’s decisions on membership, discipline, and leadership are guided strictly by its constitution and the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
According to him, the party has observed with concern what it considers ongoing efforts by certain interests to create uncertainty around its leadership despite legal developments and judicial pronouncements concerning the party’s affairs.
“The New Nigeria Peoples Party is a law-abiding political organization guided by its constitution and the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Decisions relating to membership, discipline and leadership are governed by established procedures and not by the personal interests of any individual,” he said.
Major maintained that some individuals who continue to present themselves as representatives of the party no longer speak for its legitimate leadership. He alleged that remnants of the Kwankwasiyya political structure were still operating within and around the party in ways that undermine unity and stability.
The NNPP chairman called on institutions responsible for safeguarding democracy to remain neutral, impartial, and committed to the rule of law, stressing that democracy can only thrive when public institutions act without fear or favour.
He also urged political actors seeking alliances ahead of the 2027 elections to ensure transparency and clarity in their engagements, warning that no political coalition could succeed on the basis of unresolved internal disputes.
The party further appealed to the judiciary to continue discharging its constitutional responsibility as the guardian of justice and the rule of law. Major said that where there are allegations of disregard for judicial decisions, lawful mechanisms should be activated to maintain public confidence in democratic institutions.
A significant portion of his address focused on the leadership of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), particularly its Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan.
Major expressed dissatisfaction with what he described as the commission’s failure to comply with a court order directing action within 72 hours and the filing of an affidavit of compliance within 14 days. He alleged that the order remained unimplemented more than 90 days after it was issued.
He argued that such conduct raised concerns about adherence to the rule of law and questioned the commission’s preparedness for the 2027 elections.
“It is our kind opinion that Prof. Amupitan does not have the courage and competence to occupy such a sensitive position, considering the fragile nature of the 2027 general election,” Major said.
He further contended that any attempt by the electoral commission to act contrary to lawful court judgments amounted to an encroachment on the constitutional role of the judiciary and should not be allowed to stand.
The NNPP chairman called on the courts to defend their authority and ensure that judicial decisions are respected, describing the rule of law as the most critical ingredient for sustainable democracy and public order.
Despite the concerns raised, Major reiterated the party’s commitment to national unity, economic prosperity, social justice, and good governance. He assured supporters that the NNPP would continue to pursue lawful means to protect its identity, integrity, and future.
He also urged party members and supporters across the country to remain peaceful, vigilant, and committed to democratic principles.
“Truth, justice and the rule of law will always prevail,” he declared.
The press conference comes amid ongoing political realignments and preparations by political parties for the 2027 general elections, with issues of party leadership, internal democracy, and institutional independence expected to play a significant role in the evolving political landscape.
Disclaimer
Comments expressed here do not reflect the opinions of Vanguard newspapers or any employee thereof.